We’ve played many farmers markets through the years and it’s not unusual for me to wax poetic about how warm and appreciative it makes me feel toward our community. I have a different message this year. I really want you to bring food TO the market.

Huh?

Yes. The Coralville Ecumenical Food Pantry, located just down the road from 50% of The Beggarmen, has recently moved into a new location and could use some help stocking the shelves. We have so much gear that we have to bring to and from our gigs that it’s not too much more trouble for us to load up donations and bring them to the pantry on our way home.

My favorite part of this idea is that John Boller, executive director of the pantry, has assured me that your donations of fresh produce will be gratefully accepted and very much in demand.

Come on, I was kidding earlier about the produce. We buy at least as much produce as we do hand pies.